The Vodacom Bulls and Director of Rugby Jake White parted ways on Friday, with Johan Ackermann emerging as the frontrunner to succeed the former Springbok World Cup-winning coach.
According to Rapport, Ackermann, the former Lions coach, is favoured to take over in the coming weeks. He is currently serving as a consultant with the Junior Boks and is expected to work with the team until the conclusion of the U20 Rugby Championship.
Reports surfaced earlier this week indicating that Ackermann, who shares a strong relationship with Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone, is likely to replace White. On Friday afternoon, the Vodacom Bulls and Jake White released a joint statement regarding their separation.
“With many years’ coaching experience, I felt it would be difficult to get the squad to perform to the next level. Therefore, in the best interest of both myself and the Bulls, I feel it’s time for a new chapter. It’s time for this group to have a new voice,” the statement read.
“I have enjoyed my time in Pretoria. I met some wonderful friends. I believe that rugby is like life – you win some you lose some. You learn as you grow. You need to be strong and courageous and, most importantly, it isn’t always fair.
Jake White leaves Vodacom Bulls after URC final
“I would like to thank all the loyal supporters, the Bulls staff that worked tirelessly, and to the players for their hard work and dedication. I wish BBRU president Willem Strauss and the amateur game lots of success in the future. To the shareholders, I will always be grateful for all the support and financial backing they gave, far and beyond any other club”
“Thank you for the privilege. To the Board for their support and CEO, Edgar Rathbone, coaches and management, it was great to be part of this winning culture. To be part of Bulls rugby history has been an absolute honour. I wish Bulls rugby all the best. Hou die blou bo!”
Under Jake White, the franchise reached three consecutive United Rugby Championship (URC) finals but lost all of them.
Do you think Ackermann is the right man to replace White?
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